Manchester, Aug 16 (IANS) Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has backed Marcus Rashford to remain at Old Trafford, saying the England forward can make a significant difference to the team if he stays and could be crucial for the club as they look to start their new season on a high note.
Rashford returned to action for United in their 4-2 pre-season defeat against AC Milan in Wroclaw, making his first appearance for the club since December 2024. With the transfer window still open and uncertainty surrounding his future, Maguire believes Rashford’s quality and experience could be valuable to United as they prepare for the new Premier League season.
His future at United remains uncertain with the transfer window open until September 1. The No. 9 shirt is also not considered a permanent decision, particularly with Benjamin Sesko, who had been expected to wear it this season, absent through injury.
Maguire admitted he does not know what will happen with Rashford but made it clear that he would like his team-mate to stay.
“Obviously the transfer window is still open. As players, we hope he stays because if he does, he is a big asset to have. He can improve us for sure. You saw when he came on, he threatened the backline really well. He could have scored. He’s a huge threat,’ Maguire said as quoted by The BBC.
“I’ve played with Marcus for numerous years, and I know that playing against him and playing with him in training is going to help us,” he added.
After defeat in the pre-season match, Maguire said United need to show greater intensity as they prepare for the new campaign.
“We’re wanting to play much further up the pitch, be more aggressive and more on the front foot. This was the only game where I didn’t feel we did ourselves justice in that aspect. We had a lot of high regains and created a lot of chances from that, but we didn’t sustain our pressure anywhere close to enough,” Maguire said.
Maguire also spoke positively about former United manager Ruben Amorim, who was in charge of the club for 14 months before leaving.
“It was great to see him and all his staff. I got on with Ruben really well and all his staff. I am happy he has another chance to impress and show everyone what a great manager he is. I’m sure he’s going to be a success. I have nothing bad to say about Ruben. It just didn’t work out at Manchester United,” he said.
Manchester United finished the 2025–26 Premier League season in 3rd place with 71 points, recording 20 wins, 11 draws, and 7 losses during their campaign. They will start the 2026-27 season against the newly promoted Hull City FC on August 22.
–IANS
sds/